The year is 1980-something. The island of Gods. A man meets a woman and is deeply enamored. A love story blossomed that would change the vista of Bali forever. Sounds like a dream, doesn’t it? Spoiler alert, it’s based on a true story! The man is called John Hardy and the woman – Cynthia Hardy. Together they build an eco-boutique lifestyle hotel that would turn into one of the most iconic hidden gems amid the lush jungle of Ubud. Do you mind me taking you on a journey for a minute? Caution – there’s a great chance you will end up booking your ticket! The year is 2025, the destination – Bali.
There was I on my solo trip in Bali last year, my skin glistening with the kiss of tropical humidity. As I savored the taste of a fresh coconut, I got a recommendation by a trusted local on a place called Bambu Indah. The idea of natural spring pools sounded particularly appealing to me (after all Ubud is far from the ocean’s caress). As I was doubting on which place to tick off my to-see-list first, fate intervened via my phone: “And honestly Mila, Bambu Indah – the jungle pools – is a must!” – said the message.
Off I went on a serene adventure. Quickly ordered a Gojek ride from my paddies Airbnb and messaged Bambu Indah for a reservation (must do if you want to secure your spot). Usually, it’s fully booked for a day pass, but luck was on my side. As the crow flies, the scooter ride took me past emerald rice terraces, swaying palm trees and vibrant tropical flowers. Weaving my way through narrow lanes, temples and colorful offerings to the Gods, the air thickens with the scent of frangipani flowers and the distant murmur of Ayung river grows louder.
“You have arrived, Miss”. I step off my scooter and suddenly the hustle and bustle of the busy streets completely vanished. Next thing I knew – I step into a dreamscape where nature and luxury blur like watercolors on a canvas. Bambu Indah is a magical resort where whimsy and wonder intertwine with the lush and rich Balinese landscape.
As you arrive, the boat-shaped tent entrance feels almost like a sanctuary. “Go down the cave, take the bamboo elevator, follow some signs, cross some bamboo bridges over the river and the staff will wait for your arrival by the natural pools, Miss.” Okay, sounds easy.
I started exploring the grounds like a child in a magical forest. As I walked into a cave, suddenly there was no one to ask for directions and no coverage on my phone. It felt like a Lara Croft moment where I had to let my instincts guide me. The lift felt like going down the rabbit hole – the most magical elevator I have seen in my life, made entirely out of bamboo. That is for the truly adventurous – it was carved in stone and it was a mix between an art installation and an exhibition. My modest knowledge in crystals told me it might be either amethyst or selenite that was placed in between the etched rock. Makes sense, it’s Bali after all – the evil spirits are not allowed upon entering any “home”. Then I crossed some bamboo bridges that seemed to be floating on air, and I ended up by a symphony of roosters and the aroma of locally sourced delights.
The natural pools that mirror the skies appeared before me. I found the most serene hidden nook, perfect for contemplation and quickly ordered a freshly squeezed pineapple juice. For the truly adventurous, food becomes a true fairytale as you dine in a bamboo pod suspended over a bubbling river. Your body and soul are nourished. Jumping in the natural spring pools is a must, but careful though – you might slip!
As I was exploring the cliffside lookout of the resort at dusk, I watched the sun paint the sky in the brightest shades of orange, pink and gold I have ever seen in Ubud. At that moment I saw one of the most spectacular riverside views. By one of the open-air suites and cascading pools, I admired two Balinese men who were placing candles across every stone popping above the now serene river. The marriage proposal followed shortly after and it was like a scene from a dream! (she said YES by the way)
Bambu Indah is a love letter to nature. It’s an invitation to wonder and explore every corner that holds the promise of magic. The resort shows you the art of slow living and the new luxury – to go offline. You can choose your sanctuary – antique Javanese houses, treetop nests, shell-inspired and inverted basket-style houses, abodes with glass floors revealing shimmering shrimp ponds beneath your feet…
The breathtaking vistas and tranquil ambiance of the microcosm Bambu Indah is a true hidden gem, the testimony of a true poetic love story that blends ancient traditions and modern charm seamlessly. Did you already buy your ticket to utopia?
